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Francis M. Kroboth of Elma, a retired Delaware North Cos. executive and business owner, died unexpectedly Sunday after suffering a heart attack while en route home from church. He was 54.

Born and raised in West Seneca, he graduated from Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School and St. Bonaventure University. He participated in a number of sports at both institutions and was the treasurer of Delta Sigma Xi.

Upon graduation, he commenced his career with Delaware North. He rose through the ranks to become vice president for international finance, based in Sydney, Australia.

Shortly after his and his family's return to the United States, Mr. Kroboth launched a second career in the child care field. He and his sister Ellen McKay, of West Seneca, operated Kiddie Haven, with four locations throughout Western New York.

Throughout his life, he was involved in community and religious organizations, through volunteer efforts with his childhood school, St. Bonaventure/West Seneca, Bishop Timon Alumni, St. Bonaventure University Boosters, the Knights of St. John and most recently the Men's Catholic Fellowship.

Mr. Kroboth was a Bills, Sabres and St. Bonaventure fan, attending many games with family and friends. He also was a certified softball umpire and a member of the Western New York Umpires Association.

Besides his sister Ellen, survivors include his wife of 30 years, the former Roseann Borowick; two daughters, Stacey Tillmanns and Jennifer; two sons, Christopher and Brian; another sister, Noreen Starr; and a brother, John, all of West Seneca.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. Thursday in Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 7580 Clinton St., Elma.